B.C. Dental Hygiene Clinics to Provide Free Services to Those in Need

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwired - Feb. 5, 2014) -

On February 8, 2014, dental hygiene clinics in Castlegar, Comox, Salmon Arm and Victoria will provide free oral health care services to British Columbians who are financially unable to receive dental hygiene treatment. This is the second year clinics in B.C. have participated in the annual Gift from the Heart program.

"We have all had clients who can't afford dental care," said Heather Mayhew, Registered Dental Hygienist at Floss Dental Hygiene Services in Comox. "Many British Columbians have no dental insurance or are on a fixed income, and I welcome the opportunity to support them and give back to my community by providing no-cost dental hygiene care on Gift from the Heart day."

Many British Columbians avoid regular visits to a dental office, waiting until they are suffering from tooth pain before making an appointment. Evidence shows however, that serious diseases such as cancer, diabetes and heart disease can be detected when oral health care providers such as registered dental hygienists and dentists are able to conduct a thorough oral examination.

"We know that many British Columbians are looking for ways to save money, and cutting out trips to the dentist or dental hygienist seems like an easy solution to them," said Mandy Hayre, Chair of the British Columbia Dental Hygienists Association (BCDHA). "Unfortunately, that 'easy solution' can become a major health crisis without regular oral check-ups, where we assess overall gum health, screen for diseases, and take action necessary for follow-ups and referrals."

British Columbia has more than 3,400 dental hygienists who practice in a wide variety of settings, from dental clinics to residential care homes. Registered dental hygienists are highly trained health professionals who focus on the prevention of oral disease and the promotion of oral health. They are primary health care providers who work closely with the entire health care team to support the overall health of individuals from infancy through end-of-life

British Columbians who are interested in seeing a dental hygienist on Saturday, February 8, should contact one of the following four participating clinics who will be providing oral health care services at no cost:

"As this program gains success in B.C. communities, we hope that the number of participating dental hygiene clinics will continue to grow each year," said Cindy Fletcher, BCDHA Executive Director. "Our goal is better oral health care for all British Columbians, no matter where they live or their financial situation."

The British Columbia Dental Hygienists' Association is the professional association providing practice and professional supports to dental hygienists in British Columbia. 2014 marks the 50th anniversary of the Association in the province.